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Spring Pasta Salad Recipe with Asparagus and Lemon Dill Vinaigrette

Fresh Spring Pasta Salad with Asparagus & Zesty Lemon Dill Vinaigrette

Enjoy this Spring Pasta Salad Recipe with Asparagus and Lemon Dill Vinaigrette, bursting with seasonal flavors and quick to prepare.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces short pasta (fusilli or penne) try gluten-free pasta if needed
For the Vegetables
  • 1 bunch asparagus blanch until tender-crisp
  • 1 cup peas can substitute with blanched green beans
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice use fresh for maximum flavor
  • 1/3 cup olive oil avocado oil can be substituted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill use dried dill in moderation
To Taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust based on dietary requirements
Optional Additions
  • 1/2 cup feta or goat cheese adds creaminess
  • 1 cup grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Medium bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
    Spring Pasta Salad Recipe with Asparagus and Lemon Dill Vinaigrette
  2. Blanch the Asparagus: Trim the tough ends off the asparagus. Blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Transfer to ice water to stop cooking.
    Spring Pasta Salad Recipe with Asparagus and Lemon Dill Vinaigrette
  3. Prepare the Lemon Dill Vinaigrette: In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and dill for about 30 seconds until emulsified.
    Spring Pasta Salad Recipe with Asparagus and Lemon Dill Vinaigrette
  4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, blanched asparagus, and peas. Gently stir until evenly mixed.
    Spring Pasta Salad Recipe with Asparagus and Lemon Dill Vinaigrette
  5. Mix in the Vinaigrette: Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and gently toss to coat each ingredient evenly.
    Spring Pasta Salad Recipe with Asparagus and Lemon Dill Vinaigrette
  6. Let it Rest: Cover and let the salad rest at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before serving.
    Spring Pasta Salad Recipe with Asparagus and Lemon Dill Vinaigrette

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This vibrant pasta salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.

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